How to use starwood points?

[log]

We're staying at the Swan april 3-10 with kids 3 & 6.

I currently have about 5000 points. I would like to use them up because you lose your points unless you stay at another starwood hotel within a year. (..and i'm not sure i'll be staying at another starwood hotel this year)

-I was thinking of requesting an upgrade to club level (will request 5 days prior to arrival). It costs 1500 points per day for club level, therefore I would only qualify for 3 days club level (i think). (I guess I would have to change rooms mid week).

HOWEVER, i'm not sure i will even get club level. Would they give me club level priviledges with a regular room?

ANYWAY.....if I don't get club level upgrade (to use my points), then... HOW ELSE CAN I USE MY POINTS (before I lose them)???

 

[Disneycrazymom]

We have stayed at the Swan several times( it's my favorite), they have allowed us to upgrade to club with DH plat level. I really enjoyed it, Mama T is the best! There was a points and pay special going on not too long ago. Take a look at the web site spg.com and see if you can use your points and save some money too. Since the Swan is a Starwood you would have another year before the points expire after your trip. Maybe you would have an excuse to return to WDW!

 

[floridafam]

I used my Starwood points last year for a bunch of gift cards for the Gap.

I don't know if they still offer these. I remember having to link on their website and then call and place the order. I had a lot of points that I was going to lose.

Good luck.

 

[vhoffman]

Actually, you can keep your Starwoods points by any activity at a Starwoods hotel within the time period remaining. That includes eating at one of their restaurants. You could just find a Starwoods hotel nearby and order one meal and that should do it. Of course, charge it to your Starwood's credit card.